(Photo: Gretchin Lair)
Whenever biking/walking paths cross larger streets there can be a potential for conflict. Path users might get lulled into a false sense of security while users of the street — especially if they’re moving fast in a car — might not expect cross traffic.
We’re happy to report that one such crossing is now a bit safer thanks to the installation of a flashing crossing beacon. Reader Gretchin Lair sent us several photos of the new beacon that has been installed on the Springwater Corridor path where it crosses SE 136th (map).
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We’ve yet to confirm why this particular beacon was installed, or whether it’s part of a larger safety project.* Back in 2013, a five-year-old girl was killed by a passing auto driver when she tried to cross 136th about 1.5 miles north of this location. That tragedy led to $4.8 million in funding (state and city) to add sidewalks and crossing improvements all along the street.
*Oregon State Representative Shemia Fagan confirmed with us today that this flashing beacon was indeed part of the state funding package. This is one of two “rectangular rapid flash beacons” to be installed through that project.
If you’ve used this crossing, share a comment and tell us what you think about it.